Behind the scenes access and articles from the team at The Marlowe Theatre

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Blooming on stage

The idea of Mr Bloom evolved from a street theatre production you created which you then pitched to the BBC. How successful did you think it would be as a television show? What do you think makes it so popular – even five years and five series on?You can never bank on people liking your work. You can certainly hope they do, but once it’s finished and out in the public domain, there’s nothing more you can do. For my part, I could see the concept, clear as day, working as a TV show. Thankfully, the BBC could too. As for the success it has enjoyed, that’s down to everyone else, not us. In terms of what makes it popular it’s impossible to say but obviously, it’s all a sum of its parts put together by a lot of hard graft and a lot of luck, being the right thing at the right time.

You’re loved not only by the kids – it’s no secret you’re a big hit with the mums too. What do you make to all that? Some of your ‘admirers’ say some pretty fruity things! What do your friends and wife, Mimi make of the attention?We have a giggle about it, as we’d no idea a tank top and wellies could be so attractive. But to be honest, given that I’m not on social media I don’t encounter a great deal of what goes on.

You have three children of your own, how does life as Mr Bloom work around having a young family? What do they make of having a famous dad?They’ve grown up with me dressing up as different characters, so they’ve always got their head around it. Everyone’s dad does something different. As for Mr Bloom, it was admittedly very special when they we’re younger and in the CBeebies age group, as it was of specific relevance to them. However, it is tough being away from home for extended periods of time, be it on tour or location but that’s the life we lead and it’s important to us as a family to make it work.

How will it differ from the television show?There will be familiar sights, sounds and activities from the TV show BUT this is a completely new story line and adventure. Also, the audience are imperative to the action, so unlike the TV show, they’ve going to need to get involved.